_I’m in desperate need of a new suitcase. I have three suitcases and way too many carry-on bags but the one suitcase I use the most needs to be replaced. I’ve had it about 6 years and it has been around the world and back at least twice. For me buying a new suitcase is no easy task. There are so many styles and options and everyone has their own thoughts on what is best and why. So I decided to do my research and share some of the important trends in luggage as well as things you should consider when buying a new suitcase.Trends:

Four Wheelin’ – More and more suitcases are going with four wheels. This allows you to easily roll your suitcase instead of dragging it behind you. Some people still worry about the wheels being “chopped off” but the same was true when people first started adding two wheels to luggage. I'm leaning towards this route. Which do you prefer?

Weight – With more airlines charging checked baggage fees, excess weight fees, manufacturers are using the lightest weight materials and consumers are buying it up. Several hard-side suitcases are made of a blend of polycarbonate and ABS plastic material (PC-ABS), which is as strong as polycarbonate that remains flexible with the ABS material. This makes the luggage durable, flexible and incredibly lightweight. Polycarbonate is the same material that is used in bullet-proof glass.

Color – Whether you are waiting in line at the airport to check-in or collect your bag in baggage claim you will usually see a ton of black bags. To make it easier for many people to find their bags manufacturers are going for colors and patterns, but many people continue to stick with black simply because it is hides dirt and scuff marks better than any other color. However, one color that is gaining in popularity is dark navy blue and brown. Another popular feature to help your bag to stand out is bright luggage tags or wraps. For hard-sided luggage I’ve seen people use fantastic tape to make a stripe down the side in a way that is reminiscent of old Louis Vuitton Steamer Trunks.

Power – Perhaps one of the more interesting options is the help of powered luggage. Live Luggage seems to have one of the more exciting options out there with their big powered wheels. Check out their link that shows it in motion. It will be interesting to see how this sector continues to grow.

Consider the following when purchasing your next bag:

Use - How will you use the suitcase? Will it be mainly for short or long trips? In cars, trains, or planes? Work or pleasure? Or both? If you are mainly doing short trips in planes you should consider getting something that is lightweight and small enough that you can fit it in the overhead. Make sure to look into the carry-on rules of the airline you are traveling on as each airline has their own rules for size/quantity. If your trips are long haul in nature you will want to make sure you have plenty of space for all your belongings and that the bag is lightweight enough so that you can actually move it once it is packed. Most trains don’t really have a limit on bags but you will want to consider where you will put them once on the train. If you are traveling for work you will want your suitcase to have the proper accessories for the things you will bring. For example, does it have a suiter for you jackets? Or perhaps a separate compartment for things like dirty clothes or shoes.

Quality – I always suggest getting the best item you can afford. This doesn’t mean it has to be expensive but you’ll want to make sure you are getting the highest quality within your budget. Start by doing your research. Go on-line and read some reviews from other users. www.ebags.com has user reviews for most of the luggage they sell. You’ll need to take into consideration the fact that you most likely don’t know who wrote the review but the reviews might point out things you had not thought of before. What about a warranty? Some companies have better warranties than others so make sure to read the details. Also, you might want to check into how much common repair fees are for suitcases you are considering. I once had a handle on a Tumi suitcase repaired and the repair was ½ the cost of a new bag! I recommend giving your suitcase a once-over before, during, and after each trip. This way you can see how it is doing. It is very frustrating when your suitcase wheels break mid-trip. By looking it over once you are home and before it is put away you can have things repaired or replaced in time before your next trip.

Distinguishable – Have you ever had your bag arrive before or after you and you’re trying to find it in a sea of other black bags? Consider a way to make it easier to find your bag. I recently saw a hot pink bag that clearly made it easy to find. But that might not be the look for you. But dark shades of red, navy, or green are good options. As mentioned above bright colored luggage tags are helpful. I once saw a bag with fuzzy dice like the kind people hang on review mirrors. No matter what you do make sure that it works for you.

Do you have a favorite suitcase? Do you have other interesting observations on luggage trends? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment.